Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe

If you've ever dined at Ruth's Chris Steak House, then you’ve probably heard of their famous stuffed chicken. Juicy, flavorful, and stuffed with creamy cheese, it's a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're preparing a romantic dinner at home or just craving something indulgent, this Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe will hit the spot. Follow along as we break down everything from ingredients to cooking tips, and discover how you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish at home. Let’s dive right in!

What is Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken?

Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken is a gourmet, double-breasted chicken dish filled with rich cream cheese, savory herbs, and seasoning. The stuffing is creamy and melts in your mouth with every bite. Combined with the juicy, seasoned chicken breast and baked to perfection, this dish becomes a decadent main course fit for any special occasion or just a casual dinner. It's a popular choice among Ruth's Chris fans because it's both hearty and indulgent, combining the best of savory and creamy textures.

Ingredients List for Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this scrumptious chicken dish:

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (double-breasted or large-sized)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheese Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Coating (Optional)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy coating)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (to mix with breadcrumbs)

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize the stuffed chicken recipe a bit? Here are some easy swaps and variations you can make:

• Cheese Variety: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses. Instead of cheddar, try using gouda or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor profile. You can also add a little Parmesan to the mix for extra sharpness.
• Low-Fat Option: If you’re looking to cut down on fat, you can use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat shredded cheese. Keep in mind that the texture might not be quite as rich, but it will still be delicious.
• Herbs and Seasonings: The dried parsley can be swapped with fresh parsley, and you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
• Gluten-Free: If you prefer to avoid breadcrumbs, skip that step altogether, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crispy coating without the gluten.
• Spicy Variation: For those who like a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese filling. This will elevate the flavor with a touch of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken is easier than you might think. Follow these simple instructions to create a meal that's sure to impress.

1. Preheat the Oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). While the oven heats up, prep your chicken and stuffing.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling
   In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts
   Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through. You should end up with a flap of chicken that can hold your filling.
4. Stuff the Chicken
   Spoon a generous amount of the cheese filling into each chicken breast, ensuring that it’s evenly stuffed but not overflowing. Use toothpicks to secure the chicken if needed.
5. Season the Chicken
   Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season them with salt and pepper. If you’ve opted for the breadcrumb coating, now’s the time to roll each breast in breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
6. Bake the Chicken
   Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). You can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden-brown top if desired.

How to Cook Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken is all about nailing the technique for a juicy, tender result. Here’s a recap of how to perfect the cooking process:

1. Create a pocket in the chicken: This step is crucial to ensure the filling stays inside the breast while cooking. Be careful not to slice the chicken all the way through.
2. Stuff generously: Don’t be shy with the filling! The creamy mixture is the star of the show, so make sure each chicken breast has plenty of it.
3. Secure with toothpicks: This helps hold the chicken together and prevents the filling from leaking out. Remember to remove them before serving.
4. Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F, but avoid overcooking it, as this will dry out the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overstuffing the Chicken
   While it's tempting to add as much cheese filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the filling to ooze out during baking. Make sure the chicken breast still closes easily.
2. Skipping the Toothpicks
   Don’t forget to secure the chicken with toothpicks. This small step makes a big difference in keeping everything intact.
3. Overcooking the Chicken
   To keep the chicken juicy, avoid baking it for too long. The internal temperature should be 165°F for perfectly cooked, tender chicken.
4. Not Letting the Cream Cheese Soften
   If the cream cheese is too cold, it won’t mix well with the other ingredients. Let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a big role in enhancing the appeal of any dish. Here’s how to serve Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken in a way that looks as good as it tastes:

How to Serve Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken

• Slice Before Serving: For a restaurant-quality look, slice the chicken diagonally to reveal the gooey cheese filling inside. This not only looks great but also makes it easier for your guests to eat.
• Serve with a Side of Sauce: A light sauce or gravy, such as a garlic butter sauce or a white wine reduction, can complement the richness of the chicken and enhance the flavors.
• Pair with Veggies: Serve with a side of sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes to balance out the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken

• Plate with Greens: Adding a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or baby spinach, beneath the chicken will give a nice pop of color.
• Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped chives, parsley, or even a dusting of paprika on top of the chicken for a touch of elegance.
• Serve in Individual Portions: For a more intimate dining experience, plate each stuffed chicken breast individually on its own serving dish, with your chosen sides arranged artfully around it.

Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and filling ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for dinner parties or busy weeknights.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you’re feeding a crowd. Leftovers also reheat well, making them perfect for lunch the next day.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a richer texture compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but they may need a longer cooking time. Chicken thighs are juicier, but they also have a slightly different texture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed chicken and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to bake within 24 hours of prepping.

3. How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature without cutting into the chicken.

4. Can I freeze stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared, uncooked stuffed chicken. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

5. How can I add extra flavor to the chicken?
Marinating the chicken breasts for a few hours in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can add extra flavor before stuffing them.

Conclusion

This Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With a rich, creamy filling and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish is a surefire way to impress. Give it a try and experience the mouthwatering flavors of Ruth’s Chris Steak House right from your kitchen!

Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t forget

to experiment with different fillings, seasonings, and side dishes to make the recipe your own!

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